Business
Kenya: Green Roofs in Nairobi on the rise
Green roofs have a modest cooling effect on building interiors, which cuts energy consumption by air conditioning, experts say.
They can also recycle water used inside the building, if mini water-treatment plants are installed on the roofs, according to architectural consultant Francis Gichuhi.
“Water from showers, sinks and baths is treated and re-used within the building. Green roofs can save on water bills by up to 30 percent,” he said.
The roofs also absorb up to 95 percent of rain that falls on them, which provides instant irrigation and reduces storm water run-off. And they create an unusual but welcome habitat for animals and birds, Gichuhi added.
At the Coca-Cola building, waste water is recycled and distributed to various parts of the building from tanks on the roof and below ground, including the gym and the bathrooms, Okello said.
“The green roof has helped the company reduce on costs associated with water as well as electricity, because we do not need constant air conditioning in hot weather,” he said.
